WHY RECYCLE COPPER?

Posted on November 12, 2018

Copper is the third-most-consumed industrial metal in the world (falling just behind iron and aluminum). Copper metals can be continuously recycled without ever losing their properties. 

• Recycling copper uses 85-90 percent less energy and is cheaper than mining for new materials 

• Recycling copper protects copper ore mines, a finite resource  

• Scrap copper is worth up to 90 percent of its original cost

WHAT IS COPPER?

In its pure form, copper is a malleable and soft metal, so it can be shaped or molded without breaking. Copper conducts heat and electricity well, and it’s resistant to corrosion.

Copper has been in use since the Roman Empire, and it’s also known for its antibacterial properties. Surfaces made from copper and copper alloys (like handrails, counter tops, and food safe surfaces) will kill dangerous bacteria, viruses and fungi on contact, reports the American Society for Microbiology.

• Extension cords

• Communication wire or phone wire—HDMI cords, Ethernet cables, composite cables

• Christmas lights

• Copper statues and décor

• Kitchen copper like pots and pans

• Plumbing—pipes, valves and plumbing fixtures

• House wire—Romex wires

Learn how to recycle your copper at one of our three locations.